PH, Canada armies eye stronger disaster response cooperation

Philippine Army (PA) chief Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto and his Canadian counterpart have recognized the need for cooperation on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

This came about as Alberto met with Canadian Army chief Lt. Gen. Wayne Eyre at the 11th Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference in Bangkok, Thailand on Tuesday, said PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala in a statement Wednesday.

Also discussed during the two officials’ meeting were current internal challenges and the issue on West Philippine Sea.

They also recalled Philippine-Canada roles during the Korean War and other foreign relations participation, such as in United Nations deployments.

The bilateral meeting aims to channel concerns on peace and security as well as to establish bond between commanders that will mutually benefit both armies, Zagala added.

“It is important for the Philippine Army to participate in bilateral meetings for it is an avenue to understand other countries’ interests and at the same time, for us to express our security concerns. These activities will lead us to strengthen our military cooperation and to mutually benefit with our ally nations,” he said.

Alberto also thanked Eyre for accommodating Filipino military students and reciprocated the gesture by offering PA training schools if ever the Canadian Army intends to send its students to the Philippines. (PNA)